Seductive Spots: The Haute 5 Romantic Restaurants in Los Angeles

Why not start the new year off right by treating your sweetie to an elegant evening of fine food and wine? Reservations at any of these romantic dining establishments is sure to send you home with warm, fuzzy feelings of love.

Saam at The Bazaar

Amidst the bustle of the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills sits one of the most intimate dining experiences in Los Angeles: Saam. Named after hotel proprietor and SBE founder Sam Nazarian, Saam is the hidden gem of the buzzing Bazaar by José Andrés. The non-descript entry door is tucked behind Bar Centro and hidden by curtains, so many guests might not even notice this dining establishment, which is probably better, considering it only seats 40 at a time. Philippe Starck designed the space to invoke thoughts of private dinner parties in an impeccably decorated home. The unique dining experience does not end with the decor. If you are lucky enough to snag one of the coveted tables (don’t even think of going without reservations), a dinner at Saam involves a 20-course individual tasting of small plates that pay tribute to the greatest chefs like Julia Child and Ferran Adria with a decidedly Andrés twist. While pricey ($170 per person with wine pairings, which help escalate the chance of romance after the dinner is through), it is sure to impress even the A-list starlets who like to play demure.

Saam at the Bazaar by José Andrés is located in SLS Hotel Beverly Hills at 465 S. La Cienega Blvd.; 310.246.5545

Il Cielo

Imagine you and your sweetie smack dab in the middle of a Monet painting and you have the setting at Il Cielo. The elegance and romance of this L.A. eatery soften even the most jaded of guests. The visual beauty of the restaurant fights is so breathtaking that the cuisine sometimes struggles for its fair share of attention. Owner Pasquale Vericella grew up in Pennsylvania and Italy, and it certainly shows in the confection-like décor. “Il Cielo is about all things authentic; fresh food and fresh air in a beautiful garden setting,” is his perfect summation of why it made our list for lovers.

Il Cielo is located at 9018 Burton Way; 310.276.9990

La Bohème

When La Bohème debuted its new look in 2007, jaws dropped. The West Hollywood swanky spot demonstrated its sensual side with breathtaking chandeliers that illuminate the dining room and deep red walls that accent the fireplace; the perfect setting for blooming love. The exquisite menu, prepared by executive chef Christine Banta, means that you and your honey can enjoy a fusion of the classic French background with some Japanese inspiration, in their cozy curtained booths. It has been dubbed one of the sexiest places for supper.

La Bohème is located at 8400 Santa Monica Blvd.; 323.848.2360

The Little Door

From the Patio to the Winter Garden to the Piano Room and the Blue Room, any setting you choose at The Little Door is sure to be a sweet spot with your sweetheart. The European country ambiance, enhanced by the fireplace, seduces patrons from the start. Chef Nicolas T. Pete incorporates seasonal ingredients and spices in his culinary creations that include entrees like grilled filet mignon with foie gras and aged cognac sauce with pomme annas, sugar snap peas and red beet and parsnip purèe. If that doesn’t get you in the mood for love, we don’t know what will.

The Little Door is located at 8164 West 3rd St., 323.951.1210

Cicada

When planning an amorous evening for two, it is important to choose a restaurant where the overall ambiance and five-star service is conducive to a pleasurable experience. In downtown Los Angeles, look no further than Cicada. Located in a grand Italian Romanesque-styled building constructed in the 1920s, the spacious yet intimate restaurant is laden with unique 1920s Art Deco and contemporary decor, which manifests itself in elaborate pillars, ornate chandeliers, and beautiful artworks – quite the aphrodisiac for any architecture or history buff. The cuisine is traditional Italian fare, with delectable pasta dishes like Penne Arrabbiata with Crab a la Elmer alongside items like Grilled Dover Sole. However, for your special evening on the town, may we direct you attention to the Chef’s Five-Course Tasting Menu ($95 per person), which highlights the best of Chef Suzay Cha’s offerings. After a flawless dinner, slip up to the second floor bar for a nightcap, and then head home to slip into something a bit more comfortable, if you catch our drift.

Cicada is located at 617 S. Olive St.; 213.488.9488